Dressing the frets

[jeff_75]

How do I know when it's time to dress the frets? How many times can this process be done before the instrument may need to be re-fretted?

[sunburst]

How do I know when it's time to dress the frets?

As soon as you start to notice any difficulty in
playing due to fret wear.

How many times can this process be done before the instrument may need to be re-fretted?

If you do it often, several times. If you wait 'til the
frets are worn out, not even once.

...

[grandmainger]

Can someone explain what is involved in the fret dressing process? I have difficulties understanding how a worn fret can be made good again without being replaced.
Thanks!
Germain

[Antlurz]

Basically, the whole fretboard is sanded/filed down to the level of the lowest wear mark and then if done correctly, they will be re-radiused and polished. Final result? all frets back to working and looking like they should, only they now stand up a bit less tall on the board.
For instance, grab a number: Say the worst wear mark was ten thousandths deep. That means, when all is said and done, the "fixed" frets will stand approximately that amount lower. There are some other subversive options available at times as well..

That is basically it, except that means the nut and bridge will need some fine tuning as well.

Ron

[jeff_75]

How much should one typically pay for this procedure?

[Michael Lewis]

How much you pay will depend on how much work is involved. Generally the process would involve a truss rod adjustment to make sure you remove the least amount of fret material as possible and still get the results you need. A thorough job like this would usually run from $75. to $150. in my shop, depending on how much time it takes and if all else is in good condition. Keep in mind that reality has a habit of rearing it's ugly head from time to time, and you might have to deal with loose frets, a broken or chipped nut, worn out saddle, poorly fitting bridge, etc. These all add to the bill, but need to be addressed or the job may not give the results you want.